I am looking for advice on remediation for this sad flame azalea. I am not sure whether to try to save it, because it is so close to the rhododendron next to it. (Recommendations welcome!) I assume if I do want to save it, that I need to clear out this ladies mantle from the base, but I’m not sure if there is a reason why it was intentionally planted there, or is it just spread from elsewhere. (Thoughts welcome!) The plants: Context of where they sit: Some Background: We have just moved into a beautiful lot on northern Vancouver Island. I am slowly learning about caring for all the plants here, garden built by the original owner. The previous owner of 3 years has neglected much of the garden so I’m mostly focused on remediation.
Your azalea is definitely in rough shape. I would dig it up and put it in generous-size pot in a semi-shaded spot for a year or two. Don't worry if you can't get all of the root. Make sure the soil is humusy and drains well. Don't fertilize until it's looking better. For lots of good info about growing rhodos and azaleas, check the American Rhododendron Society website - The American Rhododendron Society Welcomes You. I'd cut it back drastically to maybe a foot from the ground, hopefully retaining a few green leaves. If you can tell which branches are truly dead, you should remove them too. Some azaleas and rhodos respond well to this sort of drastic treatment; others just die. In any case, you have to do something. It's not going to improve staying where it is and perhaps isn't the prettiest colour combo with the rhodo beside it. The lady's mantle will likely not survive the separation and it likely wasn't planted there on purpose. Hopefully you have at least one other lady's mantle; they self seed quite readily. Congratulations on your new home . . . the property looks beautiful.
